Local Life - Wigan West - May/Jun 2013 by Local Life 247 Ltd

Wigan West Edition

May/Jun 2013

Book-Cycle comes to Orrell Taste Test in Parbold Jackâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Tracks visits Rainford Cash Giveaway Local Life celebrates 5th birthday!

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May s! @ The Holts Arm

Back by Popular Demand…

Credit Crunch Lunch 2 courses - only £8.95 3 courses - only £9.95

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Live Lounge & Acoustic Night Every Friday Night from 8:30pm

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Coffee & Cake - £4 Tuesday - Saturday, 12pm - 5pm Call in to take a look at our menu or keep an eye on our social pages for upcoming events Holts Arms (The Foot)

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Holts Arms the

Crank Road, Billinge, WN5 7DT

01695 628 006

www.holtsarms.co.uk

Local. Valued. Trusted.

I don’t know what all the fuss is about - back in my day, Wigan would go to Wembley every May. It was just a given - like Red Rum winning the National and Oxford getting to the final of the Boat Race! Joking apart though, the Latics’ achievement on reaching the final of the FA Cup must rank as being one of the best, if not the best, sporting achievements ever by a Wigan team. Let’s not forget that 762 teams entered the FA Cup this year, and little old Wigan made it into the final two. Even if you’re not a sports fan, you’ll appreciate that hundreds of millions of people will tune in to watch our town’s team play in one of the world’s most popular sporting spectacles. At the heart of the club’s achievements is Mr Wigan himself - Dave Whelan. Despite his propensity for upsetting people (that long line is still headed by Orrell RU fans!) you have to salute the success he has brought to the Latics since he took over in 1995. Like him or loathe him, he loves the club and has willingly put his hand in his pocket to fund their path to the top. You only have to look at the state of Blackburn since Sir Jack Walker died to appreciate how lucky Latics are to have Dave Whelan at the helm. The other big occasion in May is....Local Life is 5 years old! Yes, I know it’s not as important as the first occasion, but we had to mention it! To celebrate our birthday, we’re giving away £1200 to local community groups see pages 30-31 for details on the lucky recipients! You’ll also see from the magazine that we have tweaked the style a little....hope you like the new look! Now, who’s got a spare ticket for May 11th? See you next time,

24 30 50 54 56 60 64 66 70 71 74 75 82

Madeira Day – Travel Feature Local Life £££ Giveaway! Book to the Future What’s On in the North West In the Stocks – Taste Test Jack’s Tracks visits Rainford Pets Section Car Section Watercress & Pea Soup Recipe Garden Section Puzzle Corner Good Traders Section Useful Numbers Next issue - June

Advertising deadline - Thursday 9 May Published - Thursday 23 May Publisher: Local Life 247 Ltd, Unit 8, Hewitt Business Park, Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 7XB T 01695 627 999

info@locallife247.co.uk W www.locallife247.co.uk

Sales & Editorial: Chris Pearce, Nicola Gray Design & Production: Peter Bretherton Accounts & Distribution: Sally Boon

sales@locallife247.co.uk design@locallife247.co.uk accounts@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life is published every month. The magazine will be distributed into the following edition areas on an alternate monthly basis. The Wigan West edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Orrell, Billinge, Winstanley, Up Holland, Highfield, Marus Bridge, Roby Mill and parts of Pemberton. The Wigan North edition is delivered to over 12,500 private homes and businesses in Standish, Shevington, Whitley, Appley Bridge, Standish Lower Ground, Parbold, Newburgh, Wrightington and Hilldale. You can also pick up a free copy of Local Life at Sainsburys or Tesco Extra in Wigan. Local Life is also published in the West Lancashire and St Helens areas. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the data in this publication is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

chrisp@locallife247.co.uk

Local Life Media

In this issue

No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the prior written consent of Local Life 247 Ltd.

@locallifemedia

www.locallife247.co.uk

When you receive the new edition of Local Life - remember to recycle the old one.

ThE MINERS LAMp Ideally situated in the heart of pemberton Village, our amazing new homes at the miners lamp Development demonstrate the Dorbcrest Difference in all its glory - quality, style and attention to detail every step of the way. A family company based in pemberton, Dorbcrest Homes delight in bringing to the local area a selection of new designs aimed at the modern family. Consisting of just twelve exclusive 3 bedroom homes and one luxury single bedroom coach house, this small, select site captures our commitment to beautifully built homes perfectly - warm, bright and inviting, just as the name suggests. Occupying a desirable location, The Miners Lamp development is a short stroll to the nearby village centre, while transport links are on the doorstep and motorway networks are only minutes away. Each and every one of our homes is designed and beautifully built with the attention to detail for which Dorbcrest are renowned. Carefully designed and built to suit contemporary lives, we believe modern homes should be spacious homes. That’s why each one offers the floor space equivalent to that of a much larger property. You may be surprised by just how much space our thoughtfully planned interiors boast! You’ll find exquisite quality and attention to detail in our service too. Our individual approach begins with a personal commitment from the moment you register your interest. This small, select and exclusive development is being marketed directly from our Head Office. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore and discuss plans and designs as well as share your own ideas, thoughts and preferences together with our dedicated team.

With just thirteen beautiful homes available our exciting development is already well underway. To take advantage of contributing your bespoke design and layout ideas, talk to us soon to allow us to - quite literally - build around you. Don’t let time run out on securing your brand new home at The Miners Lamp.

New Help to Buy scHeme comes to the miners lamp Dorbcrest Homes are now giving purchasers the opportunity to take full advantage of the latest government equity scheme - Help to Buy. First time buyers and existing homeowners can now move with just a 5% deposit whilst benefiting from some of the best mortgage interest rates too. If existing homeowners haven’t already sold their home Dorbcrest Homes can take it in part exchange, speeding up the whole moving process. And if you reserve during April Dorbcrest will even give you FREE flooring.

tHe mINers lAmp Orrell Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8EV For more information call 01695 577338 or 07909 523950

dorbcresthomes.co.uk

Built by our family, for your family.

parT exchange avaiLabLe If you have a home to sell, why not ask about our 100% market value part exchange scheme? 1 bedroom coach house ÂŁ89,950 3 bedroom semi-detached homes from ÂŁ154,950

The Miners LaMp

neW heLp

TO bU scheMe Y nO W avaiLab Le Only 5% dep osit needed

Orrell Road, Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8EV For more information call 01695 577338 or 07909 523950 Visit www.dorbcresthomes.co.uk facebook.com/dorbcresthomes Find us on *Images are for illustrative purposes only. Prices and information believed to be correct at time of going to press and are subject to change without notice. Terms and conditions apply. Selected plots only. For full details of Help To Buy scheme contact your Sales Advisor.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Alma Hill Up Holland

Cob Moor Road Billinge

Sandbrook Gardens, Orrell

Naburn Drive Orrell

£495,000

£315,000

£235,000

£214,950

Tarnside Road Orrell

Gathurst Road Orrell

Shirewell Road Orrell

Bryony Close Orrell

5 bed detached

£195,000

4 bed detached

3 bed semi-detached

£174,950

£173,000

£169,950

Brookfield Road Up Holland

Sandy Lane Orrell

Belmont Avenue Billinge

Millcroft Avenue Orrell

£149.950

£140,000 2 bed cottage

3 bed semi-detached

2 bed semi-detached

Gathurst Road Orrell

Greenslate Road Billinge

Spring Road Orrell

Gathurst Road Orrell

£117,000

£105,000

3 bed semi-detached

£120,000 6

3 bed detached

2 bed end-terrace

2 bed semi-detached

3 bed detached

£129,995

3 bed mid-terrace

3 bed detached

£125,000

£79,950

2 bed mid-terrace

Can your estate agent offer you all of the following; A Local Office where buyers can browse through properties for sale? Quality Viewings where professional negotiators will accompany buyers to sell your home? Friendly & Experienced Staff with exceptional knowledge of the local area?

BorronShaw can â&#x20AC;&#x201C; and we have buyers ready to move now!

y a d o t s u l l Ca

our home. y n o n io t a lu for a free va 2 Sefton Road, Orrell

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www.facebook.com/borronshaworrell www.twitter.com/borronshaw www.borronshaw.co.uk

Safe & Happy in a Harvey Home View our select and secure development to see family living at its finest Just 4 properties available! Three storey detached homes 4 bedrooms Luxury master bedroom with ensuite Electric security gates Parking to front Gardens to rear Gas CH UPVC double glazing

www.harveyhomeswigan.com For full details or to organise a viewing please contact;

Located on Moor Road in Orrell

From only ÂŁ185,000 8

01695 632123 www.borronshaw.co.uk

Family Living at its Finest Yarwood Way is a new select and secure gated development of just fourteen contemporary 3 & 4 bedroom homes in Orrell.

Designed by our architects with the modern family in mind, this flexible living space boasts the highest standard of design and build

Prices start from just

ÂŁ172,500

Yarwood Way is located directly opposite our sister development, Sandcross Gardens.For more information, visit our sales office in Sandcross Gardens, Sandbrook Road, Orrell WN5 7AL

Call

0844 774 4460

or email us at info@sandcrossgardens.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Come and visit our newly-opened

Superb Showhome

Old Station Court, Church Street, Orrell A prestigious development of two, three and five bedroom homes

For more information or to receive a brochure contact

01942 603222

www.lowtondevelopments.co.uk

Designed to match classic elegance and contemporary style; craftsman built to an extremely high specification using carefully sourced materials; and finished with meticulous attention to detail, each superb detached property is full of character and has its own, unique charm including our innovative renovation of a local hostelry. Tumbled bricks, stone sills, leaded windows, underfloor heating and many other design features as standard add to the sense of quality that these spacious, stylish homes exude.

For further information on this beautiful development contact: www.borronshaw.co.uk

Orrell Office 2 Sefton Road, Orrell, Wigan WN5 8UP Telephone: 01695 632 123 Facsimile: 01695 625 741

Oakwood Meadows

Vicarage Lane, off Gathurst Lane, Shevington, WN6 8HP

Stunning new homes in Shevington

Springtime...

A new home this

...it’s all waiting for you at

Oakwood Meadows! We offer great deals like Part Exchange* and Help to Buy** on all our new homes, and with the outstanding quality of finish and all the benefits that come with buying a new home, why don’t you visit our fabulous showhomes this weekend and find out how you could get moving this Springtime. A fabulous choice of 3, 4 & 5 bedroom homes.

From only

£155,995 PLUS your Stamp Duty paid on selected plots

Call 01257 447 049 or visit taylorwimpey.co.uk Visit our sales information centre and showhomes open 7 days a week 11am - 5pm *Offer is only available on selected developments and properties. Terms and conditions apply. Full details are available from your local Taylor Wimpey office. Prices correct at time of going to press. Images show typical Taylor Wimpey home. **Taylor Wimpey terms and conditions apply. Images for illustration purposes only. Prices correct at time of going to press. Eligible applicants will offered an equity loan of up to a maximum of 20% of the purchase price (based on the open market value) Applicants are required to fund at least 80% of the purchase price by means of a conventional mortgage, savings and any deposit where required. For the first five years there is no fee charged on the equity loan component. At the start of year six a fee of 1.75% is payable on the equity loan, which rises annually by RPI inflation plus 1%. The equity loan is provided by the HCA and held as a second charge. Terms and conditions apply and full details will be provided on request. This offer is subject to status and only available on selected developments and properties in England only. It is not offered with any other promotion. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Pier Heritage Day

Baby Joy

The Wigan Pier Quarter will host a fantastic fun-filled Heritage day on Bank Holiday Monday 6th May! Attractions include classic cars, traction engines, a climbing wall, funfair rides and canal boat trips on Kittywake. There will also be lots of crafts and activities for all the family and street theatre provided by the award-winning drama school ALRA. Don’t miss the chance also to see the magnificent Trencherfield Mill Steam Engine.

Are you looking something special to do with your baby? Award-winning Baby Sensory classes for babies from birth to 13 months have just been launched in the Wigan area and offer a myriad of colourful sensory experiences and sensations. Imagine taking your baby on a jungle, water or space adventure, to a winter wonderland or to a world of light and magic? There are wonderful games and activities for parents and babies to enjoy together in the first precious year. Every week is different and there are lots of simple ideas for use at home too.

Skelmersdale Prize Brass Band will be entertaining the crowds, as will the iconic Wigan musical duo Chonkinfeckle and the kids will love the displays from the birds of prey. There will also be a vintage market on the day, so bring a few quid with you and be ready to have a reet good day out! The Pier Heritage Day starts at 11am and runs through until 5pm. There will be a charge for some activities, but parking is free at the Wigan Investment Centre on Pottery Road. There will also be refreshments available at the Red Pepper Cafe, which is in the Investment Centre. For further information please ring the Museum of Wigan Life on 01942 828128.

Babies learn more in their first year than at any other time, so it’s never too early start Baby Sensory. Your first session is completely free- so what have you got to lose? Come along and join in the magic of Baby Sensory at St Anne’s Parish Centre in Shevington on Wednesday mornings (10.3011.30am) or at Pipsqueaks Play Café at Abbey Lakes in Orrell on Wednesday afternoons (1.30pm-2.15pm) and also at Rainford Scout Hut on Tuesdays. Full details can be found on www.babysensory.com.

Glorious Gathurst If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re a regular visitor to Manchester or Southport by rail, then the chances are that youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re familiar with the positive changes being made to Gathurst Station. For the past 12 months, the volunteers at Shevington & District in Bloom have been working to improve the Southport-bound platform at Gathurst Railway Station. The In Bloom group would like to start a Friends of Gathurst Station group to continue the work there and maintain the work already completed. A meeting will be held at 3pm on Friday 14th June in Shevington Library to assess the interest in forming a Friends of Gathurst Station group, and the meeting will hear from Sheila Davidson from Friends of Hindley Station, who will detail how they began their Hindley group and the progress they have made since. For a sneak preview of the efforts made by Friends of Hindley Station visit http://fohs.sharepoint.com/.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Open Morning

Childhood Rediscovered

First Friends Pre-School, based at the YMCA Building on Winstanley Road in Orrell, are holding an Open Morning on Wednesday 22nd May for parents who are looking for child care in the local area. As from September 2013, the preschool will be extending their opening hours from 8am-4pm, and so demand will be high. Call in on the Open Morning with or without your child for a warm welcome, and you’ll be able to speak with qualified and experienced staff that will be able to answer any child care queries you have. If you can’t make it on the day, then please call Gill on 01942 226109 for more details about First Friends Pre-School.

If you’re old enough to remember the heyday of North Wales, when you spent your childhood holidays in Rhyl, Abergele, Presthaven or Talacre Beach, then how do you fancy a bike ride round your own haunts? The Wigan Peddlers, a group of non-competitive cyclists who raise money for charity, will be hosting a North Wales Coastal Bike Ride on Bank Holiday Monday, the 6th of May.

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This leisurely 25 mile ride starts at Talacre Beach and passes through Presthaven Sands and along the promenade at Rhyl, before it reaches the halfway mark at Pensarn Beach, Abergele. The group then stop for lunch before making the return journey in the afternoon. The route follows the North Wales seafront, is virtually traffic free, and is very flat, so is ideal for families. There will be marshalls throughout the ride should you need assistance and there are lots of snack bars and cafes on the ride. The ride is free to enter, but you must make your own way to Talacre Beach. There is limited transport places available for your bikes, for a small fee, but these places must be booked early. To book your place, email Chris at wiganpeddlers@ hotmail.co.uk or call him on 07857 482330. For more information about Wigan Peddlers, please visit their website at www.wiganpeddlers.co.uk

Pub Walk

Musicians Wanted

Now that the weather’s a bit warmer, local walking group Wigan Walkers are renewing their popular Pub Walks series. The first pub walk this year is on Tuesday 14th May, when the group will complete a 2 hour evening walk in beautiful countryside right on Wigan’s doorstep. The walk will start at 7.20pm prompt from The Crown at Worthington, which is at the bottom of Bradley Lane near Standish.

Old Hall Brass, the Roby Mill based brass band, are looking for a Trombone, Euphonium and Eb Bass players to complete their line-up. The band are currently preparing for this weekend’s Buxton Contest and the band’s annual concert at Southport Little Theatre. If you are interested in trying out for the band, please contact Paul Sudworth on 07889 271291, or via debbie@ oldhallbrass.com. All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence. If any other players are interested in the band, please call Paul.

The group also plans a Coach Ramble to Chatsworth in the Peak District on Sunday 19th May, leaving Wigan at 8.00am, and there will be a choice of 3 different walks for you to choose from. For details of the group’s walks and social events, contact the secretary, Jill Shilladay on 01257 421926 or email Jill.shilladay@btinternet.com.

Coffee Morning Salam United Reformed Church, based opposite the Co-Op on Church Street in Orrell, would like to extend a warm welcome to new visitors to their weekly coffee morning which is held every Thursday at the Church Hall, which is located behind the church. The event runs from 9.30-11.30am and also has a Nearly-New stall for the bargain hunters amongst you! On Thursday 4th July, the church will hold a coffee morning between 10am-12 noon in aid of Mencap.

Join in the fun at Baby Sensory! Award-winning exciting activity classes for your baby‛s early learning and development. Perfect for babies from birth-13 months

First class free!

Classes now in your area – call Loraine on

07786 530570

or email westlancs@babysensory.co.uk

www.babysensory.com West-Lancs-Baby-Sensory

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Tickets are now available for the Old Hall Brass annual concert at Southport Little Theatre in Hoghton Street, Southport. The concert will be held on Sunday 16th June 2013 with a 7.30pm start. Tickets are priced at £7 (£6 over 60’s, £3 under 16’s), and can be obtained from Debbie (Band Secretary) on 01942 715684.

Outﬁts for All

Occasions Weddings Cruises Summer Balls Races Call in today and see our fabulous selection

Aubergine www. a u b e r g i n e l a d i e s w e a r.c o .u k 721 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton, WN5 8AQ Free parking at rear of shop

Call - 01942 212 520 Closed Wednesday

Singing Workshop If you can hold a tune with the best of them and you’d like to develop your singing voice further, then you’ll be interested in an open day workshop which is being held in June by the Wigan Community Choir. This fabulous whole day open workshop is being led by singers from the Glaswegian folk singing group Muldoon’s Picnic who sing a cappella style. Participants will have the opportunity to develop their ability to sing this catchy style of music with confidence and to improve their

general singing and performance skills. Muldoon’s Picnic will perform a range of folk music during the day and the workshop will conclude with a short concert, by participants for family and friends. The cost is just £6 per person (£4 concessions), but prior booking is essential as places are strictly limited. The event will be held on Saturday 8th June between 10am- 4pm at Sacred Heart Primary School on Springfield Road in Wigan. There are no requirements to be a member of a choir or to be able to read music. For more details about the day please contact Jo Hunt on 01942 824923 or email wigancommunitychoir@hotmail.com.

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Gripping Drama

Fire Safety

Wigan Little Theatre’s penultimate production of the season is the American classic, a View From The Bridge. Written by Arthur Miller, the feature focuses on the implosion of an Italian American family, and runs at the Crompton Street theatre in Wigan from the 15th to the 25th of May.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Services are looking for dedicated and reliable volunteers to work on various fire safety initiatives in West Lancashire. The role is varied and interesting and would be suitable for people who are looking to gain new skills, knowledge and experience. For more information, contact Lisa Kirby on 01695 586503 or email lisak@loc.helpdirectlancs.org.uk.

Eddie Carbone lives with his wife Beatrice and his niece, Catherine, for whom his feelings are a way past avuncular. Two cousins from Sicily arrive in the country illegally, and join the Carbone household. When Catherine is attracted to one of them, the effeminate Rodolpho, Eddie’s life is thrown into turmoil.

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He comes home drunk one night to catch the couple and loses his temper - kissing Catherine and then beating up Rodolpho, before kissing him too. This powerful, passionate and gripping drama will keep you on the edge of your seat!

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Call now to register or pop in for a visit!

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Bookings for the production can be made by phoning the box office on 01942 242561, in person at the box office or by completing a postal booking form. For information about ticket prices, reservations and box office opening times, please visit www. wiganlittletheatre.co.uk.

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Good Life! A date for your diary! The Community Good Life Fair is being held at St James Social Club, St James Road, Orrell, WN5 7AA on Saturday 15th June from 11am to 4pm. Come and join Billinge & Orrell Transition Group for the inaugural celebration of your local community and find out how you can get involved in planning its future! There will be something for everyone including stalls showcasing local community activities (Greenslate Community Farm, local clubs and community groups), local crafts (artisan bread making, woodcraft skills, simple herbal remedies), backyard chickens and bees, a cycle workshop, money saving tips to reduce your household bills (buying co-ops, energy saving measures, backyard vegetable growing and animal raising). Help local school children build the model street of the future, join local students as they display their fashion designs in the up-cycled fashion show, get involved in plotting your family history on our local community timeline. Lovely locally-sourced food including a

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tasty barbeque and vegetarian hotpot, drinks, etc. Further information can be found on our website www.billingeorrelltransition.org.uk, by emailing info@ billingeorrelltransition.org.uk or by phoning Mandy on 01695 632825.

Hopping Mad! Wigan Harriers have brought forward the date of their popular Amberswood trail races to June the 2nd this year to avoid disturbing the mating habits of some of the locals! The footpaths and bridleways around the beautifully reclaimed Greenheart site near Hindley will provide the setting for both the 10k event and the shorter 2.5k fun run to be held this summer. There was a danger that red faced runners could have interrupted the Amberswood frog population at the peak of their breeding season if held later in the year, hence the decision to bring the race forward a few weeks. The two lap course offers an ideal introduction to trail and off road running for those new to the sport, as well as the perfect warm up race for anyone training for the Joining Jacks 10k to be held in the town on 8th September. Faster runners will also be attracted by the relatively flat and quick course and will welcome the chance to take a break from pounding the pavements and take in the softer paths of one of Wigan’s hidden gems. Race Headquarters will be Spring View Sports and Community Club off Marlborough Avenue with great facilities for runners to change, shower and partake of some liquid refreshments after the race! The 2.5k fun run also provides an ideal opportunity for some younger runners to have a go for glory with a medal guaranteed to all finishers!

To avoid disappointment runners are encouraged to enter in advance, although late entries will be accepted on the day. Take the ‘leap’ into trail running this summer, just ‘hop’ along to the Harriers website for details of how to enter on-line: www.wiganharriersendurance. wordpress.com.

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Lunch Club

Glee Club

Did you know that Age UK hold a lunch club in the Appley Bridge area every fortnight? The Appley Bridge Lunch Club is held every second Thursday between 11.45am-2pm at the Village Hall on Appley Lane North. For just £3, pensioners can enjoy a 2 course hot meal and drinks, and the session also has the occasional speaker and various activities. For more details call Age UK on 0300 303 1234.

Your child can learn to sing, dance and act at the Saturday Glee Club which is held every Saturday afternoon between 1-2pm at Hope Primary School in Marus Bridge. As well as meeting new friends, having fun and building confidence, members of the Saturday Glee Club perform songs from musicals and the TV show Glee. The cost is £3 per session and your child needs to be aged 5-14. Call 07739 417562 to book, or visit the website www.majorsportscoaching.co.uk.

Car Boot The Pemberton Community Association is holding a Car Boot Sale on Bank Holiday Monday 6th May at Pemberton Masonic Hall on Chapel Street. The event starts at 10am and admission is free. If you’d like to get rid of your clutter, then you can pre-book a car for just £8 (£10 on the day). If you’d like a stall, then you can reserve an outside pitch for £10 (£12 on the day). Payment for pre-booking is to be made at Pemberton Lighting on Ormskirk Road.

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Youth Club Youngsters from Marus Bridge and Winstanley have now got another option to occupy their time on Friday nights – there’s a youth club opened for 10-16 year olds at the Lower Building at the Grange Community Centre. Organised by GM Police, the session runs from 7pm to 9pm each Friday and youngsters can meet with mates, play on the X-Box, have some grub and enjoy other activities too. No need to book a place, just drop in!

Highfield Tea Party On Bank Holiday Monday 6th of May, St Matthew’s Parish Hall in Highfield will be magically transformed into a pop-up Tea Room with copious amounts of bunting, lace and fresh flowers! Tea and Cake will be served between 11am and 2pm. Along with live music and a great raffle, the Eagles Dance Club will be on the dance floor for a spot of ballroom dancing between 12.30-1pm and you can even join in! It doesn’t stop there! If you want to bring your little ones, then there is face painting and they can also create their own unique cupcake. If drinking tea from a vintage china tea cup isn’t your scene; don’t worry, the bar will be open. The Highfield event is part of the ‘Big Chocolate Tea Party’ Campaign on behalf of the Sick Children’s Trust and is being organised by a cake company called Truly Scrumptious, who are celebrating their 1st birthday.

Tickets for the event are priced at just £5.00 per adult, and include tea and cake. Children’s tickets are £2.50 and include a cupcake that they decorate and a drink of juice. Tickets are limited, and need to be purchased in advance and are available by calling 07825 512989 or emailing alex@cakeandcupcakes.co.uk.

Charity Night Book now for the Charity Fundraising Night that’s being held at St James Social Club in Orrell on Saturday 18th May in aid of St James ARL Club and the Teenage Cancer Trust! The live entertainment is The Un-Specials, who are a Ska, Two-Tone and Mod tribute act that will be rattling out hits from Madness, The Jam, The Beat, Bad Manners and The Specials. Tickets are just £5 and this great night out starts at 7.30pm. Please contact Helen on 07779 608270 for ticket information, but do call her quickly as the event is expected to sell out.

designer frames complete with single vision lenses from

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HEPWORTH & HALL opticians 806 Ormskirk Road, Pemberton WN5 8AX

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BARNES-HAZEL opticians

15 Church Street, Atherton M46 9DE

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102/104 Market Street, Hindley WN2 3AY

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Prescription sunglasses, single vision lenses +/- 6.00 cyls to 2.00. Bifocals and varifocals, subject to an additional charge.

Charity Spring Fayre

Free Publicity!

Come along to Taylor’s Farm Shop in Lathom on Sunday the 19th of May when the shop will be holding a Spring Fayre with all proceeds being donated to the North West Air Ambulance Charity. The fayre is being held with the help of the Parbold Young Farmers and there are absolutely tons to do!

If you want the crowds to come along to your next community group event, school fair or charity fundraiser, email the details to Local Life. Not only can we publish the event free in our three magazines in Wigan, St Helens and West Lancashire, but we can also tweet about your event to our many hundreds of followers on Twitter!

Activities include a coconut shy, a dunking machine, football shoot out, hook a duck, a tug of war, tin can ally, a win a fish stall, a bat- a-rat stall, a bungee race, a rodeo bull and a bale push. There will also be a chocolate tombola, a tractor balloon raffle, a wet sponge stall and refreshment in the guise of a BBQ, a cake stall and a drink stall So please come along and bring the family for a fun day out, and help raise money for a very worthwhile local charity. The Fayre runs from 12 noon to 4pm.

T FROM

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The closest you’ll get to the perfect garage door

DIR ER

Email us the details of the event (what, where, when, why, who for, how much) along with a name and contact number and anything else you want to tell our readers. The earlier you can provide the information, the better the job we can do, so don’t delay – email us today editorial@ locallife247.co.uk.

E TH MA

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CJM Garage Doors Ltd, Unit 10, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Orrell, Wigan WiganWN5 WN5 7XB 7XB t: 01942 01942 738347 738347 w: w:www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk www.cjmgaragedoors.co.uk

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W 68 mm x D 115 mm Advert - SeceuroGlide (additional logos).indd19/07/2012 1 11:1

Join Atlantic Holidays and Marken Travel for a Madeira day

Enjoy all that Madeira has to offer on Tuesday 7th May: • Watch a presentation about the beautiful island at 6:30pm • Talk to the experts about a holiday to suit you • Special offers are available for bookings made on the day

RSVP to 01744 893291 to register your place 7 & 14 night flights and holidays from Manchester operate all year round to Madeira.

Holidays along Portugal’s Estoril coast & Cascais plus City breaks to Lisbon are also available from Manchester on the daily TAP Portugal direct service to Lisbon - Ask for more details.

IN MADEIRA Madeira’s capital, Funchal, enjoys a spectacular hillside setting. It boasts fine renaissance architecture, cobbled streets and smart little squares, and this is where most of the museums, art galleries and markets are to be found. Historical monuments include forts, old churches and the 15th-century Sé Cathedral. Further afield in the countryside, you can see sugar and banana plantations and vineyards that produce the famous fortified wine. If you’re looking for a walking holiday, you’ll relish the chance to walk along the network of “levadas” – the paths beside the irrigation channels that criss-cross the land. Holidays to Madeira wouldn’t be complete without sampling the local cuisine, such as espetada (beef on skewers) and caldeirada, a fish stew. And every visitor should try the famous toboggan run from Monte to Funchal, where traditionally dressed conductors guide you down the hill in a wicker sleigh. The staff at Atlantic and Marken Travel have given their top ten reasons to take your holiday in Madeira: • • • • • • • • • •

It’s the perfect place for a sophisticated and relaxing break. The people are warm and hospitable. It has a delightful sub-tropical climate. It’s known as “the ﬂoating garden of the Atlantic” for its natural beauty. Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is a hub for culture and the arts. There’s a rich cultural heritage, with superb Renaissance architecture, monuments, forts and churches. The countryside is a tapestry of plantations and vineyards. Madeira is famous for its fortiﬁed wine. The network of ‘levadas’ offers visitors the perfect walking holiday. The famous toboggan run from Monte to Funchal is not to be missed.

To book your place please call 01744 893291 200 Main Street, Billinge, Wigan WN5 7PE

www.locallife247.co.uk

New Nail & Beauty! The long-established Orrell business, Nail & Beauty Rooms, has just expanded to bigger premises just a few doors away at Orrell Post. Owner Clare Parry, who has had the business for 9 years at Orrell Post and a further 5 years before that at Standish, has relocated the business from 259a Orrell Road to 269 Orrell Road, which is opposite the entry to The Stag’s car park. Open 6 days a week, the Nail & Beauty Rooms offers their customer a wide range of treatments using top quality branded products. In addition to the full range of Shellac colours, they also offer semi-permanent make up and eyebrows and are the number one place to go before you head out for the night – they do airbrush make up too! If you have a Hen Party or a Princess Party to organise, then do give Clare a call on 07753 387680. Hen Parties

can look forward to one-on-one beauty sessions with bubbly on hand, and Princess Parties include chocolate face masks, face paint with glitter and jewels, nail art; with party food and party bags included too!

Hay ROCK ParK Saturday 22Nd

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At our open studio sale weekend there will be a wide range of pieces on show & many items will have up to 70% off plus all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All our work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio & pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. So come & join us on the 11th & 12th of May 2013 open from 10 - 4 both days. Unit 11, Hewitt Business Park Winstanley Road, Orrell, Wigan, WN5 7XB t/f 01695 624182 w www.morpheusglass.co.uk e info@morpheusglass.co.uk splashbacks | panels | coasters | jewellery | hangings | sculptures | bowls

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Ask about our kitchen makeover service – We replace your doors, worktops, handles and appliances to give your current kitchen a brand new look! New showroom now open; 8-5pm Monday-Thursday, 8-4pm Friday, 10-1pm Saturday

Cabinet Masters – Unit 1, Conway Trading Estate, Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, WN6 9DW Telephone: 0 1 2 5 7 2 5 5 8 3 1 www.cabinetmasters.co.uk

Trade customers welcomed

Salesperson Required

Trekkers Walk

If you’re working in sales and you fancy a fresh challenge closer to home, then you’ll be interested to hear that Local Life is recruiting a Sales Executive to work out of our offices in the Orrell area!

Coming up shortly is the annual fundraiser for Wigan and Leigh Hospice – Star Trekkers. Each year around 600 people take part in this special evening under the stars and raise approximately £40,000 for the Hospice in the process. This year’s walk takes place on Saturday 8th June and there’s a choice of an 8-mile or a 5-mile route for those who want something a little less strenuous. Everyone who makes it back is welcomed with a medal.

You can expect a good basic plus unlimited commission and a generous mileage allowance, and the chance to work with some lovely people too! You must have a proven track record in sales and have experience at building long term relationships with clients. This is initially a 6-month fixed term full time position to cover maternity leave, but you can expect to be offered a permanent position at the end of the term if you impress us! The closing date for the position is Friday 10th May, so if you’re interested, then please email your CV to info@locallife247.co.uk before then.

The Hospice, who have just received £510,000 from the Department of Health towards their new £1.5m new outreach facility, is also looking for volunteers to help make the evening run smoothly - to work as marshals, man stalls, distribute items to walkers and help us with the pit stop. For more information about the Trekkers Walk please contact the fundraising team on 01942 525566 or apply to join the Star Trekkers walk online at www.wlh.org.uk/trekkers.

Happy Father’s Day

Sunday 16th June 2013, 12pm till 4pm

3 Course Carvery and a gift for Dad

2 for 1 £19.95

Holiday Inn Haydock (M6, Jct23) Lodge Lane, WA12 0JG To book call: 01942 868 330 or visit www.hihaydockm6j23hotel.co.uk Terms and conditions apply.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Cash Giveaway!

It’s our birthday this month, so I’ve been persuaded to put pen to paper and say a few words... Our magazine was launched in May 2008, when we published a 24 page magazine and delivered 8,500 copies into Orrell, Billinge and Up Holland. Fast forward to 2013 and we now publish three magazines, which are delivered to a total of 67,000 homes across Wigan, St Helens and West Lancashire. We’ve relocated from a back bedroom to a converted garage and our home is now on Hewitt Business Park on Winstanley Road in Orrell. It’s hard work launching a business in a recession, but amidst the heartache, worry and frustration, there has been a lot of fun parts too! In true Oscar-style, I’d like to say a big thank you to all those people who work hard to produce and deliver the magazines each month, and all the advertisers who have been, in the main, rocksolid in their belief in Local Life.

Most of all though, I’d like to thank you for taking the time to read Local Life. Our job is to bring you a product which is entertaining and informative, and in return, we hope you will use Local Life when you need to buy products or services. When you buy a product or service from someone local rather than from a national chain, your cash stays within the local area for longer and the benefits filter down through the community and eventually, you and your family, friends and neighbours benefit as a result of you buying local. Anyway, to mark our 5th birthday, we were going to have a big party with cake and jelly, but instead we decided to donate £1,200 to community groups/ charities who, we feel, are most likely to make a positive difference to you and your local community. It was a hard choice because there are so many good causes out there, but we narrowed the choice down to eight groups. Each of the following eight groups has received £150;

Parbold Scouts and Guides helped raise a remarkable £120,000 in 5 years to fund their new headquarters - the Hut on the Hill. Over 300 young people use the facility each week, along with many other community groups too. They need an additional table for the Hut and they also want to install a large screen for presentations, so the £150 will help towards funding these items.

You can read about Book-Cycle on pages 50-52. This national charity has done a wonderful job at Beech Hill - maintaining and even enhancing an important local facility. They move into the old Library at Orrell later this month and this £150 will help towards the estimated £1,400 costs of transforming that building into a muchneeded community hub. Community and sports groups in Rainford take turns to host a Saturday coffee morning at Rainford Parish Hall. These coffee mornings are very popular with the villagers and provide a financial lifeline for so many groups. A few of the upvc windows in the hall have failed, and the trustees are going to use the £150 to help repair them.

The Billinge & Orrell Transition Group have secured the offer of a lease from Wigan Council on approximately 17 acres of land at Greenslate Farm in Billinge. In time, the Group will have allotments, fruit and vegetables, chickens and pigs and lots more. The group will be spending £150 on tools for use by the community. Community groups and charities in the Rainhill area are the lucky beneficiaries of the Rainhill Gala.Last year an amazing £8,000 was raised for many local good causes, including a £4,000 donation for Willowbrook Hospice. Our £150 will be added to their fantastic fundraising efforts. This year’s Gala takes place on Monday 27th May - don’t miss it!

The village of Shevington has many well-run community groups who would all be strong candidates for a £150 grant, but the stand-out group for us is the Shevington & District Community Fete. The fete is in its third year and the group hopes to eventually be able to help other community groups with funding. Our £150 will help towards the cost of staging the fete. Newton Community Centre, which opened in 1987, is managed and staffed by local people for local people and is a registered charity. Open six days a week, the centre runs a staggering amount of activities and it’s a huge asset for the local area. Our £150 will help the centre to run playgroups over the summer holidays.

www.locallife247.co.uk

Mawdesley Millennium Green is five acres of field, wooded coppices, wild flowers, walks and play areas in the centre of Mawdesley which is used daily by walkers, nature lovers, picnickers and children, and is also used to hosts annual fundraising events. A committed group of volunteers from the village work hard on the upkeep of the area and our £150 will help towards the costs. We’re looking forward to the challenges that the next five years will bring and we’re always looking for ways to improve our service to you. This summer we’ll be launching the free Local Life App, a Jack’s Tracks Book of Local Walks is scheduled for 2014 and we have other projects planned too. For updates on what we’re up to at Local Life, follow us on Twitter @LocalLifeMedia.

Save Your Local If your local pub is the heart and soul of your community, then you now have the opportunity to give it extra protection from property developers. CAMRA say that 18 pubs a week are closing and are urging regulars to club together and list such pubs on the Asset of Community Value list. Listing a pub with the local council is very simple say CAMRA - you just need twenty others to support your nomination. The benefits of it being on the list are; • The pub can’t be sold on without the community being told about it • If a listed pub goes up for sale, the ACV status can delay the sale for up to six months, which will give the community time to bid for and run the pub as a community owned business using the Community Right to Bid powers.

• Councils will take the ACV list into account when considering planning applications for the pub, and this alone can put off developers who are looking for a hassle-free purchase. All the information, advice and support you need on the Asset of Community Value list is available from www. camra.org.uk/listyourlocal

Divine Days Children’s Creative Art Workshops are now taking place at Up Holland Library every Saturday. The workshops consist of drama, dance, story writing, music and art and run from 11am-12pm for 7-11 year olds and 12.30-1.30pm for 12-16 year olds. All sessions are run by qualified practitioners who are CRB checked and the cost per session is £3.50 For more information, contact Katie on 07896 137236 or visit www.divinedays.com

THE TAVERN Bar & Thai Restaurant The place to be for authentic Thai food! 2 course special lunch £6.95

2 course all days fixed price

£10.95

not available Friday & Saturday after 6:30pm

À la Carte menu also available

 THE TAVERN

www.thaitavernhouse.com

Restaurant Opening Hours Monday 5 - 11pm Tues-Sun Lunch 12 - 3 pm Dinner 5 - 11pm

37 Mesnes Street, Wigan, WN1 1QP

drinkaware.co.uk

Tel 01942 375413

for the facts about alcohol

VOUCHER

20% OFF

your food bill when you select from the a la carte menu. Not available on Saturday after 7pm Only one voucher per booking Voucher does not include drinks. Valid until 31 May 2013

Lovels Coffee Shop is open Monday – Thursday from noon till 5pm, serving freshly made sandwiches, homemade soup, selection of delicious cakes and other treats. Lovels lunch served Fridays and Saturdays only

KIDS EAT FREE ALL DAY EVERYDAY 1 ADULT MAIN COURSE PER CHILD MEAL

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Go Mad in May for our great deals!

CANNOT BE USED IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY OTHER OFFER, ENDS 31/5/13

25% OFF OUR À LA CARTE MENU

from noon till 5pm and our dinner menus from roast menu all day.

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5pm till late Monday - Saturday, plus Sunday

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FREE BOTTLE OF HOUSE WINE WHEN 2 PEOPLE DINE 3 COURSES À LA CARTE

HOTEL

More than just a wedding venue

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HOLLAND HALL

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Holland Hall, Lafford Lane, Upholland, Lancashire, WN8 0QZ 01695624426 www.hollandhallhotel.co.uk info@hollandhallhotel.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

For a top quality deep clean carried out by experienced specialists Traditional service - state of the art results Shevington based family business 5 star rating with Wigan Trading Standards Good Trader Scheme plus Awarded the CertiďŹ cate of Excellence in recognition of consistently high standards of feedback from customers in 2009/10/11 The most thorough clean, or itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s free! Call today for a free consultation & no obligation quote

Competition Winners Andrea Williamson (pictured) from Denshaw in Up Holland and Lisa Barnett (pictured with daughter Teagan) from Merton Road in Highfield were the lucky winners of our Spa competition which was featured in the March issue of Local Life. They each won a Spa Day for 2 at Radiant Living in Station Road in Parbold! Many thanks to all those people who entered the competition.

R. BANKS

& SON (FUNERALS) LTD. Brian Halliwell Dip F.D M.B.I.E.

Independent Funeral Directors Monumental Masons

A local family run business, R. Banks & Son are one of the largest independent funeral directors in the Wigan Area

‘Safe Haven’

Pre Arrangement Funeral Plans and Memorial Plans available

24 hour service • Caring family firm

Branches: Coppull 01257 793880, Bryn 01942 271392 Standish 01257 422011, Scholes 01942 820526, Leigh 01942 261415, Beech Hill 01942 829200, Tyldesley 01942 887312

Head Office: Halliwell House, 758/768 Ormskirk Rd

Pemberton, Wigan WN5 8BB www.rbanksandson.co.uk

T: 01942 222156

Over a Century of Local Family Tradition

EDWARDS Funeral Directors

Not enough hours in the day for you? Want to spend quality time with the family?

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Every working home deserves a Maid2Clean Perhaps you have an elderly relative or friend who could use some help around the home? We can also clean your Office please phone for details

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Your friendly local family business

Charity Cake Off Fancy yourself as the host with the most? Don’t miss the Charity Cake Off being held at Shevington Methodist Church on Saturday 11th May. The event has been organised by Shevington & District Community Association and all proceeds go to Shevington in Bloom. The event is open to the public from 11am-3pm at the church which is on Gathurst Lane near the shops. If you’d like to take part in the cake-off, just email vgalligan@hotmail.co.uk.

Summer Social The annual summer social of the Monday Night Dancers is being held at Pemberton Masonic Hall on Chapel Street on Saturday 29th June and tickets are now on sale! The dancers, who meet each Monday at the Grange Community Complex in Marus Bridge, invite you to

w e n a t n a W ? e g n e l l a ch

join our Person to ires a Sales qu re d Lt 247 s. Local Life rrell ofﬁce am at our O t may growing te duration, bu a six month of ly al iti in n is This positio sition. rmanent po p long term lead to a pe and develo e will build at stomers id cu nd g ca tin ul is sf ex The succes ith new and w ps s. hi ea ns latio ncs ar business re and West La , St Helens in the Wigan perience will; arketing ex Ideally you le sales & m ab er id ns co s Have ion skill communicat y Show good nt IT literac lle ce ex te Demonstra ate; ca sful ndid r the succes We can offe of pay Good rates mmission co d ite im nl U ance ileage allow m s ou er Gen

come along to the 50/50 social and meet some new friends. Tickets cost £5, which includes a hotpot supper and the evening begins at 7.30. To reserve your ticket call Carol on 07749 947461 or Jacqui on 07927 665546.

Bungee Challenge Daring fundraisers can take to the skies this Sunday (28th April) to raise money for a cancer hospital. A reverse bungee is going to be sited at the Boars Head in Standish between 11am and 6pm to raise funds for the Dr Joe Jaffe Hospital Support Charity, which is helping raise money for a new patient treatment centre at the Christie Hospital in Manchester - one of the country’s premier treatment units. Those brave enough to give it a try will be enclosed in a protective metal frame and ejected at high speed high into the sky – and if you’re wanting a bit of Dutch courage, then pop into the Boars Head beforehand!

d? Interesteinfo@locallife247.co.uk CV to Email your ; or post to 7 Ltd Local Life 24 Business Park itt Unit 8 – Hew d Roa Winstanley Orrell Wigan WN5 7XB

Closing date 10 May 2013

E ce! IS pri M n O en o P R at E be IC t be PR on’

e W

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Lawrence Tribute The Mayor of St. Helens, Councillor Geoff Almond, has paid tribute to a Billinge ex-serviceman by honouring him with a Good Citizen award. Lawrence Powers, who lives on Winstanley Road with his wife Jean, has an amazing 62-year-long unbroken service for the British Legion and is also the proud recipient of their County Certificate of Appreciation. Lawrence wasn’t initially called up because of his reserve occupation duties as a farm worker in his native Rainford was helping to put food on the tables of war-ravaged Britain. But he nevertheless volunteered to be called up for the RAF on his 17th birthday. By that time however, it was 1944 and there was dwindling Allied demand for flyers, and so, with the European war coming to an end, he switched straight into the army because of the impending invasion of Japan.

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Stoves & Flue

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celebration for his service as Legion Standard Bearer during which he has represented the RBL at more than 530 parades, dedications and ex-servicemen’s funerals nationwide, including four trips to the RBL’s Poppy Day Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall. He is still a very committed member of five former service organisations across Wigan and St Helens, including 42 years service with the Burma Star Association.

Messy Church Following up on the success of their initial ‘Messy Church’ events, St. Luke’s Church in Orrell have arranged a further two events to take place in the Church Hall on Lodge Road on Friday 17th May and Friday 21st June from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Messy Church is an alternative way to do church in a relaxed atmosphere and at a time more suitable for families. Everyone is welcome, but children must be accompanied by an adult.

HOME CARE

We’ll give you a helping hand so that you can stay happy in your own home. We give you;

• Help with day to day tasks

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Call us today for a free consultation A1 Nursing & Homecare Agency is one of the North West’s leading care agencies and is licensed by the Department of Employment and the local health authority.

A1 NURSING & HOMECARE AGENCY

55a Park Road Wigan WN6 7AA

Call - 01942 496352 www.locallife247.co.uk

Your Health - by Dr Mike Paull Chiropractor

Blood Pressure – The Highs & Lows The first thing to know about high blood pressure is that many people have it for years without any discernible symptoms. Unfortunately, the first symptom that they then do get can be as serious as a stroke or a heart attack. So what is high blood pressure? High blood pressure is that which is measured as being above 139/89 by your chiropractor, general practitioner or pharmacist. It is a measure of how much pressure your blood exerts against the walls of the arteries around your body. High blood pressure cannot be felt as such, which is why it’s vital to have it measured at least annually. There are a number of medical conditions causing high blood pressure, such as kidney problems. By far though, the vast majority of people have no clearly identifiable cause. The good news about this so-called ‘essential’ health condition is that it is nothing of the kind; rather it is a reflection of our lifestyle choices, and there are lots of ways in which we can reduce it naturally. High blood pressure is a reflection of the overall efficiency of our hearts as a pump, and also our psychological state. The fitter we are,

the lower our blood pressure. So the healthier our minds are in terms of smoothing out the stresses and strife of modern life, the lower our blood pressure. In turn, our risk of serious illness is lower too. If you are interested in making your heart more efficient, be sure to get some steady, regular exercise such as steady walking, cycling, swimming, or even running. Losing weight means your heart has less work to do also, which in turn, lowers the pressure. And now for the mind... Quite simply, any activity which encourages you to relax will reduce your breathing rate, heart rate and in turn blood pressure. Such activities, whether they span 10 minutes or an hour should become part of your daily routine. These can be anything from a soak in the bath with a good book, to watching a favourite funny film or TV show, to gardening or even stroking a pet! The point is, it needs to be an activity that you like which encourages you to ‘switch off’. The holy grail of reducing your blood pressure would ideally be to find an activity which combines the two aspects of heart and mind. Not everyone can do this, but for instance, once people have gained the necessary acquired taste for exercise, they often find that they feel much more relaxed than normal afterwards. But hey, don’t stress about this idea! Until next time, I hope you stay happy and healthy.

Treating the peo ple of Wiga n since 19 81

• physiotherapy • acupuncture • reﬂexology • specialist treatment of CFS/ME

physiotherapy clinic

18 Bridgeman Terrace, Wigan, WN1 1TD

T 01942 321235

www.bridgemanphysiotherapy.co.uk

Winstanley Rd, Orrell, WN5 7XA

SUFFERING WITH MUSCLE, JOINT OR NERVE PAIN?

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How can you help me? We always start off with a 45 minute consultation and examination to find the underlying causes of your problem. We then use gentle, safe hands-on treatments to relieve your pain.

How soon can you help me? We are open six days a week and offer appointments the same or the next day. We are open Monday-Friday 8am-7pm, Saturdays 8am-4pm.

Why do we offer gentle treatments? Because we treat young children and senior citizens, we know that people prefer gentle, painless treatments.

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Money & Investments - by David K Barton APFS Cert CII(MP)

Avoiding Investment Mistakes In Retirement Do you manage your own investments and have you been happy with their performance? Whilst investors have endured a roller coaster ride over the last few years the investment fundamentals have remained unchanged. There are a number of common errors that investors make and therefore I thought it useful to familiarise Local Life readers with just a few of the mistakes that investors often make when attempting to manage their money. Time Horizons How long do you think you will live? Usually investors are far too conservative which can be a problem when planning their futures. With medical treatment becoming far more effective most people are now living far longer than they imagine they will. Clearly the danger is that funds will be depleted before their lives are over. It is important to have a sound financial strategy that will provide stability and provide income needs throughout ones life.

Investment Objectives and Portfolio Strategy Aligning your objectives with your portfolio strategy is critical to determining your long term investment success. A common error is misjudging risk .Generally, the longer the investment time horizon, the more risk one is able to take on. Too many investors focus on short term volatility rather than long term probabilities of achieving their objectives. Those with a short time horizon objective that overly expose themselves to risk can create a real danger of asset loss during a short term period of volatility which can put their entire financial future in jeopardy. Overlooking Unintended Risk Factors Managing a diversified portfolio of assets can be fraught with hidden risks. Too often portfolios are overexposed to certain risk factors that were never

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properly recognised. Unintended concentration produces excess risk. This exposes a portfolio to larger fluctuations and the possibility of accelerated losses. Factors such as sector, country, currency all play a roll in a sensibly diversified portfolio. Quite often two different securities that “on the face of it” appear different can have similar correlation and consequently market factors such as interest rate movements or commodity price changes can affect both holdings in the same way. Too high a concentration of any of these can expose your assets to risks you never intended Ignoring Global Markets As a result of globalisation there are a significant number of investment opportunities to take advantage of. Try not to make the common mistake of sticking to the domestic market. If you suffer from a home country bias(even with diversification across different sectors) the returns are still in part linked to the overall

economic performance and political climate of the home country. Geographical diversification is a key part to building a well constructed portfolio that will grow your assets. Investing abroad can help strengthen your portfolio by creating a larger pool of opportunities from which to find worthy investments. Over Confidence It is only natural to experience emotional fluctuations as you watch the ups and downs of the market each day, after all it’s your financial future. This can cloud judgement and hamper the ability to make rational decisions. Many investors focus on their successes and forget the mistakes they have made. Creating these barriers that block mistakes and over exaggerate success can build an air of over confidence. This may lead to taking on excessive portfolio risk. That is why it is vital to create an environment that is detached from emotion, one that relies on data and impartial analysis to make the right decisions for your financial future. Have you made any of these mistakes? It is very difficult to avoid all of the investment pitfalls – even for the most experienced of investors. Many investors simply do not have the time or resource to process the vast amount of data available and then to apply it to their personal investment requirement. If you need help please do not hesitate to give us a call. The value of investment and the income from them can fluctuate which may result in clients receiving less than initially invested. Past performance should not be seen as an indication to future returns

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Bounce for Cash When Billinge-based businessman Colin Wilson, who co-owns long established local roofing company Wilson Brothers, launched his new bouncy castle company Will Bounce last year, he pledged to donate part of the company’s revenue to local schools.

to increase the amount of funds raised at events such as summer fairs. In addition to the funds raised by bouncy castles at events, parents who subsequently go on and book a bouncy castle for a private family event will see 10% of the value of their booking donated to their child’s school. Colin met up with Mr WIlson (no relation), the Head Teacher at Holgate School in Orrell, to hand over the first of numerous cheques. Local schools to benefit include Upholland High, St Matthew’s in Highfield, Worsley Mesnes Primary, Wigan St Andrew’s and Marus Bridge Primary. When asked about the initiative, Head Teacher Mr Wilson enthused “it’s a great initiative to support local schools, and I’m sure that all the money raised will go to improve children’s lives”.

WIll Bounce provides local schools with a free bouncy castle once a year for an event of their choice and many schools have already made hundreds of pounds as a result of this generous initiative, using the opportunity

Call Andrea on: 07827 774471 Email: areid@bookkeepingsolutions.org.uk

If you’re involved with fundraising for a local school in Wigan or St Helens and you’d like a FREE bouncy castle for your summer or Christmas fair, then please give Will Bounce a call on 07809 880443. For more details about the bouncy castles available, visit the company’s website www.willbounce.co.uk.

Accountancy - by Chris Alcock ACMA

Hands-on Guide to the Budget This month we are reviewing the recent budget and looking at how this will impact you. 1 Personal Allowances increase to £9,440 for everyone from 6th April 2013. It is important to check that you have the correct tax code on your wage slip. From April 2014 this will rise to £10,000! 2 Child benefit to be partly removed – There are important rule changed from 06 January 2013 that will affect you. Where at least one person earns over £50,000 you could end up having to pay back some of the money you have received. 3 Changes to Child Tax Credits – Payments depend on your circumstances and the thresholds have changed. If you are unsure about how these changes may affect your please contact us for advice. 4 Company Car Drivers – The tax paid on the benefit of having a company car will increase. There are incentives for choosing a car with low CO2 emissions and these should be looked at when selecting your next car. 5 Business Capital Allowances - The amount of money a business can spend on capital equipment has increased to £250,000 per year. This is a very important area for tax planning if you are a small business and can save you £000’s if implemented correctly. 6 VAT – The main rate of VAT remains at 20%. If you are a business, the threshold for registering for VAT has increased to £79,000. If you run a business and need

any advice on VAT please contact us as we can advise you on what is the best scheme for your business. If you’d like to find out more about any of the issues discussed above CMA offers a free initial consultation, either at our office or yours, at a time to suit you. If you would like to see how we can help please get in touch.

Tax Tips of the Month Are you a business and employ staff? Real Time Information (RTI) will require all employers to report PAYE/NI deductions to HMRC on a real time basis. In order to meet the requirements of RTI most businesses will need to review their software to make sure it is up to date. CMA can provide an outsourced payroll system.

SPECIAL OFFER If you contact CMA before 31 May and ask us for advice you will receive a discount of 25% off our standard charge. To claim this discount just mention the article when you contact us. To see how we can help you please get in touch:

CMA is a proactive accountancy firm based in Appley Bridge. We provide the usual services such as accounts and payroll services. We can also help you with your bookkeeping if you hate doing this!!

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Chris Alcock ACMA CMA Accountancy 39 Skull House Lane, Appley Bridge, Wigan, WN6 9DR Tel: 01257 255521 Email info@handsonaccounting.co.uk www.handsonaccounting.co.uk

Puggle’t Paddlers? Three brave Standish-based Managing Directors set off next month on an epic kayak voyage across Scotland in aid of Prostate Cancer UK. The unlikely trio; David Barton and Andrew Maxwell of Wigan Road, and John Caunce from Trevore Drive, will be paddling from Fort William to Inverness on a 60 mile trek known as the Great Glen Canoe Trail, which was only established in 2010. The trail comprises of 22 miles of the Caledonian Canal and the rest of the journey takes place on the open waters of Loch Ness, Loch Lochy, Loch Oich and Loch Dochfour. Though John has kayaked before, David, of Prosper IFA in Standish and Andrew, of Pemberton- based Amspec, have no experience of kayaking whatsoever. Citing a collective mid-life crises, David, who writes a monthly Money and Investment column for Local Life (see pages 44-45) assures us that they are confident that they will complete the trip within four days. If you’d like to

sponsor the trio’s efforts to raise money for Prostate Cancer UK, visit www.justgiving.com/David-Barton3.

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Making a claim and your “No Claims Bonus” Often after being involved in a road trafﬁc accident people are concerned that pursuing a claim for injury and vehicle repair may mean their insurance premiums are increased when renewal time comes around. Insurance is not optional, and with the cost of the same increasing with every year it is important that you do all that you can to keep this cost as low as possible.

If you choose to instruct us to help you with your personal injury claim we guarantee that your claim will only be dealt with by an experienced member of staff who will listen to your concerns and deal with your claim as quickly and efﬁciently as possible. We act on a “no win no fee” basis. If you have been involved in an accident call us on 01942 211670 to discuss any potential claim with our local, experienced team.

If the fault for your accident clearly lies with the other vehicle then your insurance company may not even need to be involved. You do have an obligation to report any accident you are involved in to your insurance company, but you do not need to use their recommended garage, or panel solicitor to pursue your claim for losses. As you are not relying upon your insurance company, your No Claims Bonus will remain intact. If the other vehicle is disputing responsibility for the accident your insurance premiums may well be affected. This does not mean that you should resign yourself to a permanent hike in the cost of insurance. If a claim is pursued against you it is important that you co-operate fully with your insurance company. Give them a very detailed response to all questions asked, and ensure that you get your version of events across to your insurance company. It may be that your premiums are altered while a disputed claim is resolved, but when a case has been resolved in your favour, any increase in premiums will be reduced again. Another problem you may face after an accident is that the person who was responsible for the accident was not insured.

At Craig and Co we specialise in personal injury claims of all types. We guarantee that your claim will only be dealt with by an experienced member of staff who will listen to your concerns and deal with your claim as quickly and efﬁciently as possible. We act on a “no win no fee” basis and you will keep 100% of your compensation. If you have been involved in an accident call us on 01942 211670 to discuss any potential claim with our local, experienced team.

This means that there is no insurance company to pursue for your losses and ultimately this will affect your insurance premiums, even though the accident is not your fault. It is therefore advisable to take out a cover with your policy to protect your premiums from an accident with an uninsured driver in order to protect your no claims bonus. The best way to protect your no claims bonus is to always co-operate fully with your insurance company, and get independent legal advice if you are ever unsure or want a second opinion. At Craig and Co we specialise in personal injury claims of all types, and can help you with any queries you may have about any aspect of making a claim.

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Call - 01942 211670 19 Queens Court, Wardley Street, Wigan WN5 8BF

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Community - Book Cycle

Book to the Future

It was Joseph Addison, the co-founder of The Spectator magazine who said that ‘Reading is a basic tool in the living of a good life’. A philosophy that’s surely shared by the founders of Book-Cycle, a unique volunteer-led charity that is run from hubs in Exeter, Rome and Wigan. Their Wigan operation, which is based at the old Beech Hill Library on Buckley Street West, has just celebrated their 1st year of trading and the charity have just landed a two year lease to transform the old Orrell Library into the newest BookCycle centre.

The History of Book-Cycle The story of Book-Cycle began when an exiled Wiganer called Anthony noticed, whilst living in Canterbury, that perfectly good books were being discarded on a grand scale from charity shops, in recycling bins and at other locations. Himself an avid reader, Anthony and a few friends started collecting books in the hope of finding them good homes. They placed the books into phone boxes and train stations and at many other weird and wonderful locations, anything to keep them away from landfill sites. In 2005, a friend of Anthony’s returned from Uganda bemoaning the lack of quality teaching materials, especially books. Anthony was determined to help; he knew that getting the books wasn’t a problem, but finding the money to ship books over to Africa was a huge hurdle. Within just six months, he had collected 100,000 books and had already decided to start a charity

that would give people free access to books, both in the UK and abroad. That charity was Book-Cycle. The first outlet was opened in Exeter in May 2007 and the first few educational book parcels were sent to Uganda soon afterwards. Volunteers quickly came forward to help and the organisation established firm roots in Exeter, spreading the Book-Cycle ideology throughout Exeter, the South West and then to other parts of the UK and abroad. From modest beginnings, the BookCycle revolution rolled on and now encompasses book shops, space in cafes, shops and pubs and even monthly art auctions using recycled materials. The charity also works to benefit the local community in other ways, such as establishing projects to encourage self-reliance through home food growing, engaging in global issues and promoting wildlife by planting trees.

Beech Hill

What’s it all about? The concept is simple; customers are allowed to take up to three books from any Book-Cycle outlet and any financial donations subsequently received are, after paying for the running cost of the outlet, are funding the shipping of books to developing countries and are funding planting trees in the UK. There was never (and still isn’t) any obligation for customers to return the books they have chosen, though most people do and most will make a small donation as they do so. Underpinning all their efforts is a desire by the charity to increase third world’s access to books and other educational tools. When donations of books are received by Book-Cycle, they are screened and anything that is deemed suitable to raise educational standards overseas is stored. Once there are sufficient quantities, the books are shipped to partner charities in the third world who use the books to populate purpose-built libraries.

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In late 2011, Anthony, who lives in Exeter, received a call from his mum to say that Beech Hill Library had been earmarked for closure. This was the first Library that Anthony had visited as a child, and supported by his family in Wigan, he sprang into action and persuaded Book-Cycle to act. Anthony persuaded Wigan Council to grant Book-Cycle a seven year license at a peppercorn rent. After some initial opposition from a local community group, Book-Cycle has been welcomed by the local community with open arms. With a lot of help from family, Anthony managed to get the former library up and running in just four weeks as a library-cumcommunity centre, and they now have 35-40 volunteers in place who do various tasks at Book-Cycle and hundreds of supporters who donate books and money to the charity. In their first year of operation, they managed to cover the running costs of the building and make a small surplus at Beech Hill. But more importantly, Book-Cycle have maintained and even managed to enhance a community facility which now opens seven days a week and is the home to numerous local groups. In addition to the thousands of books, CD’s and DVD’s in stock at Book-Cycle Beech Hill, the facility provides free internet access, hold workshops, live bands have played there, they show independent film screenings once a month, and have even managed to run events such as a Spring Fair. During their first year, the Beech Hill operation collected and shipped two full pallets of books - one to Zimbabwe and the other to Mozambique.

Orrell

How you can help in Orrell!

Kelly Ready had pledged publicly to re-open the old Orrell Library as a community facility when successfully standing for election to Councillor in Orrell Ward last year and approached BookCycle for help soon after she was elected. Amidst a backdrop of uncertainty - the site is close to the now closed Orrell Tip and the disused building that used to house Orrell’s Urban Council - Kelly managed to help Book Cycle to secure a provisional two year lease for the old Library when their current occupants, Metrofresh, move out in late May.

Volunteer

When we caught up with Kelly and asked her about the Book-Cycle initiative, she said ‘This is great news for Orrell and I am very excited about it. I would like to thank my fellow ward Councillors who have worked on this project with me. This is going to be a great asset for the community of Orrell’. Book-Cycle want to replicate their Beech Hill success in the old Orrell Library and with your help and support, Orrell could have its very first community hub by Summer! It is planned that the Orrell Book-Cycle will open seven days a week and will develop into a valuable community facility, but this all depends on the level of support from residents.

To successfully launch Book-Cycle Orrell, local volunteers are needed to sort and place the books, be on hand to help members of the public, make the coffee and lots more. Volunteers usually work a single half-day a week, but any time you can spare will be appreciated. Book-Cycle is a non-hierarchical organisation, so no-one will give you a specific role, everyone just mucks in to get the job done. Book-Cycle would also be interested in ‘start-up’ volunteers; to help with painting, make shelves and get the place ready for opening. Donate To get the Beech Hill project up and running, Book-Cycle spent a total £1,400 on wood, paint, flyers, signage and other sundry items and it is anticipated that a similar amount will be needed to make Orrell operational. Any financial contributions towards the cost would obviously be welcomed, but the charity are also looking for comfortable furniture in good condition, such as sofas and armchairs. Late model computers would be appreciated, and also would, of course, books in good condition.

If you’d like to be a Book-Cycle volunteer in Orrell or you’d like more information about Book-Cycle, call Anthony at Book-Cycle Beech Hill on 01942 747750 between 11.30am - 6pm. Book-Cycle’s website can be found at www.book-cycle.org or search for Book-Cycle Wigan on Facebook.

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What’s On in the North West The Royal Beer Festival

Light Night Festival

The 3rd Annual Royal Beer Festival held at Mere Brow Village Hall is on the May Day Bank Holiday Weekend with over 30 real ales and ciders and live entertainment. Organised by The Rotary Club of Southport Links, all profits go to charity.

Light Night is Liverpool’s annual one-night arts and culture festival - over 50 city centre galleries, museums and venues open until late, staging around 100 special cultural events for visitors of all ages. Visitors can also look forward to spectacular light projections, street theatre, and a vibrant myriad of walking tours, open studios, live music, hands-on workshops and much more.

Friday 3rd May - Sunday 5th May (Fri 4pm – 11pm, Sat & Sun 12pm – 11pm) Cost: £5 (includes a programme and souvenir glass) Details: 07798 873737 / www.royalbeerfestival.co.uk Where: PR4 6JX When:

Tudor May Day Festival Join us for a May Day Festival including a range of Tudor inspired activities at Speke Hall. Have a go at archery, candle making, coin striking, quill writing, and other activities, make something to take home or browse a range of authentic stalls selling all manner of Tudor treats!

When: Sunday 5th - Monday 6th May (12noon-4pm) Cost: Normal admission applies Details: 0151 427 7231 www.nationaltrust.org.uk/spekehall Where: L24 1XD

Morpheus Glass Open Studio At the open studio sale weekend at Morpheus Glass in Orrell there will be a wide range of pieces on show and many items will have up to 70% off. In addition, all orders placed on the weekend will receive 30% off the normal RRP. All their work is handmade by glass designer Stephanie Bowen at the studio and pieces can be made to order to suit any space including splashbacks. When: Cost: Details: Where:

Saturday 11th & Sunday 12th May (10am – 4pm) Free 01695 624182 / www.morpheusglass.co.uk WN5 7XB

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Friday 17th May (4pm til late) Free www.lightnightliverpool.co.uk Liverpool City Centre

Walking With Dinosaurs

After a worldwide tour seen by over 7 million people in 206 cities, the stunning theatrical event is back! Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 20 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus-Rex! Watch them walk! Hear them roar! Weds 22nd May - Sun 26th May (11am, 3pm & 7pm) Cost: £25, £35 & £45 Details: 0844 8000 400 / www.echoarena.com Where: L3 4FP When:

Great British Food Festival The Great British Food Festival is being held at Walton Hall and Gardens, near Warrington. With live music, chef demos, cake-offs and lots of local producers, foodie types out there will have a fantastic time! When: Cost: Details: Where:

Sun 26th-Mon 27th May (10.30am – 5pm) £4 www.greatbritishfoodfestival.com WA4 6SN

Southport Food & Drink Festival

The Northern Home Show

The Southport Food and Drink Festival at Victoria Park has an abundance of fresh produce, a wealth of local restaurants, plenty of drink, plus a selection of the region’s finest chefs demonstrating their kitchen skills. When:

If you’re interested in inspirational design ideas and the latest products and services for the home then look no further than the Northern Home Show at EventCity near the Trafford Centre. The Show features free seminars, live demonstrations and advice from the experts.

Southport Country Fair

Cheshire County Show

This popular family event moves to a new home at the Leisure Lakes at Mere Brow. In previous years, attractions

Cheshire County Show celebrates its 175th anniversary with another action-packed event. With its rural theme, the main focus of the show will once again be livestock, horses and dogs in competition. There will be a Countryside Experience Area where the public will pursuits such as falconry and ferreting. Visitors will also be able to sample to culinary delights and see demos at the Food Hall.

Fri 31st May – Sun 2nd June (11am – 6pm, Fri 12pm-6pm) Cost: Free Details: 01704 533333 Where: PR8 2BZ

When: Cost: Details: Where:

Fri 14th June - Sun 16th June (10am - 5pm) £8 per person (Under 16 free) www.northernhomeshow.co.uk M41 7TB

When: Tues 18th June - Weds 19th June (8am-6pm) Cost: Adult £17, OAP £14, Children £8 Details: 01565 650200 www.cheshirecountyshow.org.uk Where: WA16 0HJ

Wigan Festival of Transport This new festival, which is held at the DW Stadium site in Wigan, will include a range of vehicles on static display, including classic, vintage and commercial vehicles, fire

and displays have included: alpacas, archery, paintballing range, bug house, dedicated dog arena with shows and agility demonstrations, donkey show and rides, falconry, ferrets, gun dog displays, gymnastics, homing pigeons, honey bees, horse logging and much more. When: Cost: Details: Where:

Fri 31st May - Sun 2nd June ( 10am-5.30pm) Adults £5, Child £1 01704 212734 / www.garden-festivals.com PR4 6JX

Chorley Carnival After 20 years Chorley Carnival is back for 2013 at Astley Park with a fun filled weekend for the whole family. There will be a carnival procession, arena entertainment, marching bands, Morris Dancers, a dog show; also it’s a Knockout, a Fun Fair, a Craft Fair and so much more. Great laughs for all! When: Fri 7th June - Sun 9th June Details: www.chorleycarnival.com Where: PR7 1NP

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engines, military trucks, and a variety of specialist car clubs and trade stalls. There’s also a craft fair, a traditional fun fair, and a model engineers’ tent too. When: Cost: Details: Where:

Sat 22nd June - Sun 23rd June Adult £4, Children £2 01942 496855 / www.festivaloftransport.co.uk WN5 0UH

Taste Test

In the Stocks What the Silicon Valley is to technology, the Douglas Valley is to food, so it’s not surprising that residents of Wigan head north when in need of a good feed! The Dicconson Arms in Appley Bridge, The Star in Roby Mill and The Wayfarer in Parbold have all picked up awards for the quality of their food. The newest member of this exclusive club is the Stocks Tavern in Parbold, which was once the haunt of village ne-er do wells, but is now laying down credentials for the rest to follow.

With so much competition, Gareth knew that he needed a top chef to attract local diners, and wee Glaswegian Marti Cameron was top of that list. Marti’s impressive CV includes a spell at the plush Rusacks Hotel in St Andrews and the Head Chef’s position at Rigalettos in Wigan. More recently, Marti was the guy who transformed the fortunes of The Star at Roby Mill and then he joined the staff at Wigan Athletic, working as Head Chef at their Christopher Park training ground. The grand opening of Sally’s at The Stocks happened a couple of months ago and performing the honours on the night was Latics manager and local resident Roberto Martinez. We waited til the fuss had died down and went to Parbold to check out The Stocks Tavern.

It’s been a long while coming, the building has been standing since 1810 on the site where the village stocks once stood and local miscreants were pelted with rotten pears, but the word is out that The Stocks Tavern is the new place to eat in 2013!

This is the classic friendly village pub; cosy, with open fires, welcoming smiles, beamed ceilings, great atmosphere and a couple of little private nooks for the romantics amongst you. The choices on offer were plentiful; there’s an a la carte menu, an Early Diners and even a Ramblers menu. Just as we’d warmed up, our starters arrived.

Local guy Gareth Caunce, who formerly worked across the road at The Wayfarer, was an ex-regular at the Stocks and when he was offered the chance to manage the pub by a well-respected local businessman, he snapped it up. Focusing first on the beer, Gareth has built up the Stock’s reputation for real ales; the pub appears in the Good Beer Guide for 2012 and 2013, and they have just been awarded CAMRA Locale status too.

I started the night with Sally’s Scottish Salmon, Chilli and Herb Fish Cake, served with petit coriander salad with a tomato concasse. Spicy, packed with a hell of a kick, this dish wakes up your taste buds with the culinary equivalent of a Glasgow kiss! Don’t forget a squeeze of lemon to add a bit of zest too. Just as you think you can’t take any more, the tomato concasse comes along to add a soothing balm to your palette.

complemented perfectly with plentiful curls of the most exquisite Parma ham and a very light but tasty pesto sauce. To top it all, she’d ordered an extra side dish of heavenly chunky home cut chips! Stuffed, warm and hugely contented, we sat back in pleasure at polishing off those two delicious main courses. Ahead was dessert, and purely for research purposes (!), I ordered a single homemade Apple and Honey Crumble with Crème Anglaise. A generous portion arrived, big enough for two, and topped with a strawberry. It was really tasty, the natural sweetness of the honey really shone through, and the Crème Anglaise was super too. But really and truly, we were stuffed.

Meanwhile, my partner was tucking into her starter – A Wedge of Brie encased in herb encrusted breadcrumbs accompanied by a plinth of salad, and served with plum and onion chutney. The smooth and creamy Brie was a delight to savour, and the fruity chutney contrasted perfectly. The salad was tasty too and both plates were completely cleared! I could have picked half a dozen meals off the imaginative menu, but in the end I plumped for the Pan Fried Medallions of Pave Beef Rump Steak, which duly arrived stacked in a tower of sweet potato and roast root vegetable mash and surrounded with stroganoff sauce. Reader – it was gorgeous! Please note that if I ever end up on Death Row, make sure this is my last meal. Infused with rosemary, the tender beef was exceptionally tasty, the mash was chunky, but not too chunky and the sauce was rich and juicy. This meal was accompanied by some delicious new potatoes and fresh winter vegetables too.

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The Stocks Tavern 16 Alder Lane, Parbold, WN8 7NN 01257 462874 www.thestockstavern.co.uk All photos (C) Joel Penn Photography

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Whilst tucking into my feast of a main course, I did wonder why my dining partner was silent. It turned out that she was completely fulfilled with her own choice of main course, which was the Oven Roasted Breast of Chicken, stuffed with Mozzarella and Garlic Mushrooms. This was a deceptively large and tender portion of chicken, with the skin crisped up beautifully, and was

Put aside any perception you had about the Stocks, and make room on your ‘Places to Eat’ list for the Stocks Tavern. But the word is out, so move quickly – this cosy country pub with fantastic, home-made food at very reasonable prices sits just 60 diners at any one sitting and pre- booking is likely to be needed to secure a table!

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Jack’s Tracks

Rainford & Mossborough Hall When it comes to walking, Rainford offers a totally different character to its near-neighbour Billinge. Where Billinge offers hills and views for miles around, Rainford is the gateway to the Lancashire Plain; expanses of flat agricultural acreage stretching as far as the eye can see. The six mile walk detailed here is perfect for a summer’s day; the aspect is flat and open, but a multitude of trees in certain areas will provide some cover and shade. En route, you’ll find a picnic area, a nature reserve, a farm with a tea shop, and if you time it well, you’ll be able to have a well-earned rest whilst watching the cricket, the quintessential village game in a delightful setting of a traditional English village. Enjoy!

Old Lane to Sidings Lane Park up on Old Lane in Rainford. On the right hand side of Helen Bank Drive, next to the bus stop, you take a path up some steps to join Rainford Linear Park. You’re now heading north out of the village towards Rainford Junction on what is an old railway embankment, and you’ll have a great bird’s eye view of the surrounding countryside. After approximately 450 yards into the walk, you’ll start heading downhill. On the left hand side, you’ll see a red bin for dog waste; turn left at this point and then take the immediate path to the right. Follow the path over the stream and through the metal stile. When you get to the end of the pathway, turn left and walk about 20 yards until you reach a green metal gate, with Junction Road lying on the other side of the

gate. Go through the opening onto Junction Road and then turn right. Pass the white cottage on the right, and then go past the modern brick wall on the left. When the brick wall ends, don’t follow the curve of the driveway up to 95 Junction Lane, but instead carry straight on in the same direction, leaving tarmac and going onto the grass footpath. About 100 yards further on you’ll come to a junction; take a right turn up a grassy track with barbed wire fences on both sides – you should see a bridge in the distance. After 350 yards, you’ll cross the bridge, which takes you over the railway line, and you can see Rainford Junction station in the distance on the right. Less than 100 yards later, you’ll come to a crossroads of paths; turn left and head down a track which is Red Delph Lane. When you get to the bottom of Red Delph Lane, cross over the slip road and then cross over the two lanes of the Rainford Bypass taking great care as you go. Siding Lane is almost directly opposite, so take a turn down there. Siding Lane to Dairy Farm Road Walk down Siding Lane for 250 yards, cross the stream and you are now in Siding Lane Nature Reserve. The Ranger Centre is on the left with toilets and car parking; go straight past this, and also ignore a footpath on the left. Once you have reached the end of that road, you’ll see a white farmhouse on the right hand side with a driveway heading to it, there is a pathway straight ahead with a yellow gate and a pathway on the left with a green gate, go through the green gate. After about 50 yards you’ll reach a large picnic area with seating. Turn right and keep on the right hand side heading towards the bottom right hand corner of the picnic area. Once you’ve reached the corner, take a downward path that dips towards the fishing lake for a few yards; then take the path on the left heading directly away from the pond.

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Follow the path that meanders its way through the woods. Once you have passed the mobile phone mast on the left, about 50 yards further on there is a turning to the left. Take this turn and head up the embankment towards the railway line. Cross the railway taking great care, closing the gates behind you. When you get to the other side of the railway, follow the footpath running diagonally towards the woods in the distance. Aside from the woods, you’ll note that the landscape has changed to huge open expanses of space, so if it is a windy day, you’ll start to feel the chill about now! Once you’ve reached the woods, keep to the track and follow this down the right hand side of the woods until you reach Dairy Farm Road. Dairy Farm Road – Moor Game House Ignore the footpath sign opposite and turn right down Dairy Farm Road. Walk down this quiet concrete path for ¾ of a mile, passing the Mosspark industrial site, which was formerly the site of a War Department Depot and a munitions storage base. The condition of the path gradually worsens the further down the path you go, and once you’ve reached the end of the Dairy Farm Road there’s again a crosssroads of paths.

Turn left onto Coach Road. This is a ruler-straight single track road that runs from Knowsley Hall all the way up to Bickerstaffe, probably built in the early 1900’s when Lord Derby owned all the surrounding land. The views around you probably haven’t changed much since then; this is a desolate spot soaked with almost eerily quietness. You follow Coach Road for just over ½ a mile and just after the bench on the right and just before the farm on the right, take a left turn. You’ll then walk approximately 600 yards down a track, with fantastic views of Rainford and Winter Hill on the left, until you reach another crossroads of tracks; take a 90 degree left turn at this point, heading towards a

Mossborough Hall Mossborough Hall, then called Rainsford Hall, was built in 1300 and soon after, Sir Robert de Lathom, who was the lord of the manor of Rainford, gave his brother Thomas the house and nearby lands. The Lathom family continued to live in the moated hall for a further three centuries, but during the religious conflicts of the 16th century Henry Lathom, a staunch Roman Catholic, was persecuted for his religious beliefs and imprisoned at Lancaster. Mossborough was eventually inherited by Frances, the great grand-daughter of Henry and when she married Robert Molyneux of Melling in 1664, the estate passed into the Molyneux family. The hall was destroyed by fire in 1700 and then renovated in 1703 by Robert Molyneux, the son of Frances and Robert. The estate was passed down to the Blount family in 1752, and it was then sold to the Earl of Derby in 1786, whose descendants have owned it to the present day. Mossborough Hall is now the base for James Heyes & Sons, who specialise in green waste recycling.

small wood, and follow the track for approximately 500 yards down the left hand side of the wood, which is known as Clare’s Moss Plantation. Once you reach the end of the wood, the path bear right; follow that path for a further 425 yards. The house in the distance on the right is Moor Game Farm. Moor Game House – Old Lane Once you’re close to Moor Game House, the track forks. Take the left fork and follow the track for a further ½ a mile until you reach the Rainford by-pass. If you’re fancying some refreshments at this point, then Lavender Farm (Inglenook Farm) is just a few yards away, but if not then cross the by-pass with great care, turn right and take the immediate left down Moss Nook Lane. As Moss Nook Lane swerves to the right, take the foot path that is straight ahead – heading towards Rainford Parish Church. At the end of that path cross the bridge over the stream and follow the path, with the cricket ground on the left and the football pitches on the right. After 300 yards, you’ll pass Rainford Parish Church on your right hand side and then that path will eventually bring you out in the Golden Lion car park on Church Road. Turn left down Church Road and when you get to the mini roundabout turn right into Cross Pit Lane. After 60 yards or so, turn left into a road called The Spinney; once you get down to the bottom of that road, follow the footpath on the left hand side, which leads into Rainford Linear Park. The path forks a bit further on - take the smaller path to the left and after 400 yards, you’ll arrive at your starting point on Old Lane. Please ensure you wear appropriate clothing and footwear whilst walking. Whilst every care has been taken to ensure that the walk is accurate, neither the publisher or its editorial contributors can accept, and hereby disclaim, any liability to any party to loss or damage caused by errors or omissions resulting from negligence, accident or other cause.

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Love Your Pets - by Dr Shams Mir BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS

Act Now to prevent Bunny Heart-Break Often on the insistence of a child, a new rabbit arrives with a hutch (hopefully with a run), food and toys, but regrettably little, if any, information on the upkeep of its long-term health. Sadly, many pet rabbits end up becoming unwell and it is heart-breaking for many to discover that the much loved family rabbit has contracted an untreatable infection and needs to be put to sleep. The owner’s lack of knowledge about the rabbit is compounded by the unfounded perception that a rabbit that doesn’t come into contact with other rabbits is unlikely to contract any horrible infections. Unfortunately this isn’t true and rabbits are prone to infectious diseases. The two most crucial infections that a rabbit might contract are Myxomatosis and Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD). Both diseases are caused by viruses, implying that they cannot be treated by antibiotics like many bacterial infections. Sadly, both often prove to be fatal. Myxomatosis is the most dangerous infectious disease that a rabbit can catch. The disease is transmitted by insects, such as like mosquitos and fleas, from other infected wild or domestic rabbits. Myxomatosis can be so overwhelming that it may not allow the rabbit time to display any symptoms: a previously apparently healthy rabbit may be found dead or flip and die instantly. But, the most common symptom is the rabbit slowing down, followed by swelling of the eyelids, ears and genitals. Less common and slow progressing form of the disease is manifested by lumps developing in the skin all over the body. Unfortunately, in spite of the best possible intensive veterinary care, most rabbits do not recover and need to be put to sleep. Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease (RHD), is also a deadly disease, which progresses more ferociously and leads to rapid death. Symptoms may include redness of the inner aspects of eyelids (conjunctivitis) before succumbing to death. The disease is transmitted through direct contact with infected domestic or wild rabbits, or through infected bedding, utensils food,

water etc. It can also be carried by wind. The diagnosis of the disease is often made by post-mortem observation of bleeding from the nose and occasionally from other body orifices. Fortunately, both the above described diseases can effectively be prevented through timely vaccination. At ‘Sunrise’ we use a single injection covering both the dreadful disease, which needs to be repeated yearly to keep the immunity up to the mark. Rabbits can be vaccinated from five weeks of age. Those that have never been vaccinated can be vaccinated any time, and best performed before the onset of Spring to ensure they are fully protected before the populations of biting insects may begin to rise. Some rabbits also tend to succumb to serious effects of protozoan infection caused by Encephalitozoon Cuniculi, which often turns out to be fatal when the brain is affected leading to severe neurological signs like head tilt and convulsions. This condition is hard to treat and often proves fatal. However, it is possible to prevent this condition from developing by treating the rabbit with a specific medication at regular intervals. If a bunny becomes unwell, it is likely that the owner will seek veterinary help, but a visit to the vets with an infection like the ones listed above is likely to be a waste of time and will certainly cost more than the preventive vaccination or treatment. Therefore, it makes every sense to take preventive action, and not to take any chances. We would be glad to answer any questions you may have regarding your bunny’s health and vaccination. Please give us a call on 01257 463 142. Dr Shams Mir BVSc&AH,MVSc,DrMedVet,MRCVS Veterinary Surgeon Sunrise Veterinary Surgery 6 The Common Parbold WN8 7DA Tel: 01257 463 142 www.sunrisevets.co.uk

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Motoring Feature - by Andy Enright

Lighter Touch

Audi A6

Amid all its intriguing technical features, the latest Audi A6 demonstrates that simple weight saving is the most effective path to efficiency. Putting the A6 on a strict diet, not getting too ambitious with expanding its size and focusing on sensible engine development has seen Audi markedly improve the efficiency of its executive saloon offering. Moving it to the undisputed number one sales position is the aim, but is the A6 too subtle to grab the limelight?

It may come as a bit of a surprise that Audi reckons its last A6 was the best selling executive saloon in the world. Here in Western Europe however, the A6 could often be found lagging behind the Mercedes E Class and the BMW 5 Series in the sales charts. But Audiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest focus on efficiency through lightweight construction should certainly consolidate its recent record of success and may even be the way to put European bums on seats. Weight reduction as a method of improving the driving experience applies just as much to executive models as it does to sports cars. The benefits in terms

of handling, braking and acceleration are easy to imagine but there are also key benefits for ride quality, especially if the weight reductions come, as they do in the A6, hand in hand with an increase in chassis stiffness. Engines? The A6 gets four from the outset with as many as five more waiting in the wings. To begin with, Audi has concentrated on efficiency with a 175bhp 2.0-litre TDI diesel earmarked as the big seller, and more diesels are also available, all based on a 3.0-litre common-rail V6.

the steering function for the driver when manoeuvring into parallel or perpendicular parking spaces. Other options include comfort seats with heating, cooling and massaging functions, acoustic glazing, supple leather trimming for the centre console, a 15-speaker 1200-watt Bang & Olufsen audio system and a TV receiver. Audi has clearly done what was 'correct' from an environmental and financial perspective. This latest A6 is a markedly improved vehicle compared to its

If there was one defining characteristic of the old A6, it was its size. The thing was huge. Whilst this was great for rear seat passengers and people smugglers, it never did much for the car as a dynamic entity. The current A6 is both shorter and lower than its predecessor but a few millimetres wider. Despite that, rear legroom is up, and the use of aluminium has cut the car's body and chassis weight by 15 per cent with 80kg being shaved off the final product. A kerb weight of 1575kg while for a diesel-engined car of this size is laudable. The styling is rather predictable, but the overall effect is cleaner and sleeker than before. The shorter front overhangs give the A6 a more dynamic stance, helped by the lower roof line and more aggressively tapered rear. It's a very assured piece of styling although not one that will provoke too much reaction. A wraparound dash with low key but high quality detailing follows Audi's latest design theme. Audi's value for money proposition looks very convincing when you compare the A6's pricing against that of its key rivals and the amount of equipment that's included. Couple that with class-leading residual figures and you have a very strong financial argument indeed. The range opens at around ÂŁ30,000 for the 2.0-litre diesel in SE trim. This includes alloy wheels, leather upholstery, cruise and front and rear parking controls, SD-based satellite navigation, Bluetooth phone preparation, split/folding rear seats and light and rain sensors. S line models add larger 18-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlamps with LED daytime running elements, sports suspension, upgraded Valcona leather upholstery and an exclusive S line exterior and interior styling treatment. The list of options includes a night vision assistant employing a thermal imaging camera to highlight 'warm-blooded' road users in front of the car and a park assist system which automatically takes care of

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predecessor. This philosophical rectitude may not be enough to punt the A6 into the undisputed number one position that Audi seeks. Cars that convey an overt message command a premium off the back of it and the A6's messages are so subtle they're in danger of being drowned out by pushier brands. But look beyond the oppositions hype, and the cerebral Audi A6 may well prove beguiling.

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Garden Diary - by Angie Barker

Three steps to a revived garden

Award Winner

Having endured a long cold spring, our gardens may be in need of some quick fixes to help them get back to looking at their best. When you don’t have much time (and let’s face it who does these days) there are some things you can do which will instantly lift your garden and make you want to get out there and enjoy it. Here are my three top tips: Weed and mulch your borders - It is amazing how mulching with compost or bark chippings can instantly lift borders and set emerging plants off to a tee. It will give the garden a fresh and clean look as well as helping to retain moisture in the soil, keep weeds at bay and improve the soil structure – a real quick fix with instant gratification. Colour - After such a long wait for some warm weather, what gardens are crying out for is colour. Places like B&Q and some supermarkets sell pots already made up with colourful plants which will keep flowering for weeks if kept watered. Placing these by the front door or on your patio will give an instant summery feel to your garden. (Just be aware that some plants may not be hardy so watch out for frosty nights).

Give these quick fixes a try and see what a difference you can make to your garden.

Lift your lawn - This is probably your last chance to give the lawn a spring weed and feed. It can make a huge difference and cleaning up lawn edges which meet borders and paths also makes an instant improvement.

I couldn’t let this month go by without letting you know that having endured 25 years of marriage, Hubby is whisking me off on a trip of a lifetime. We are going on the Orient Express to Paris. How lovely. I’m a very lucky lady – and Hubby agrees!

Angie is a qualified award-winning garden designer who will plan your garden to your needs from start to finish, supplying reputable contractors and the ideal plants.

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Recipe of the month

Watercress and Pea Soup

Serves: 4 Preparation: 25 minutes Cooking: 10 minutes

Method Heat half of the butter in a frying pan over a medium heat. Add the shallot, garlic and fry gently until softened - about 3-4 minutes. Add the watercress, peas, parsley and hot stock or water, bring the mixture to the boil, then reduce the heat until the mixture is simmering and continue to simmer for three minutes, or until the peas are bright green and just tender. Pour in the cream then blend thoroughly using a hand-held blender. Season to taste with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir in the remaining butter until melted. Divide the soup equally among four serving bowls and garnish with baby watercress. Finish with a drizzle of olive oil. Serve immediately.

Ingredients • 100g/3½oz flat leaf parsley • 400g/14oz fresh watercress • 50g/2oz butter • 1 shallot, peeled, chopped • 2-3 garlic cloves, peeled, chopped • 400g/14oz frozen peas • 1 litre/1¾ pints hot vegetable stock • 100ml/3½fl oz double cream • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

To Garnish • Handful baby watercress • Drizzle of olive oil

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Wordsearch Sudoku

Puzzle Corner

Guess where? Photo courtesy of Wigan Heritage Services http://wiganimages.wlct.org/ Answers are on page 80 of this magazine

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Orchid Pansy Peony Petunia Poppy Primrose Rhododendron Rose Snow Drop Sunflower Sweet William Tulip Violet

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K Stone Building Services All types of building work undertaken

01257 422317 or 07852 202867 www.mtjoiner y.co.uk

JOHN GREENHALGH JOINER

Extensions | Conversions Renovations | New Builds Considered Phone: 01257

426966 846211 E-mail: johngreenhalghjoiner@gmail.com

Mobile: 07801

25 years experience

• Brickwork • Pointing • Garden Walls • Patios • Roof Work • Flagging • Alterations • Plastering

01942 495412 / 07974 496676 Trust us with all your building needs Extensions - General Maintenance Barn Conversions - New Builds PVC Windows & Conservatories

Paul Darbyshire Construction Tel: 01744 895 792 Mob: 07790 654 608 E-mail: pauldarbyshireconstruction@live.co.uk

First Class Workmanship • All types of re-roofs • Strip & re-slate or re-tile • Built up felt/flat roofs, dormers etc. • Insurance work undertaken • Roofline uPVC fascias, soffits & guttering

• WILSON BROS • Est. 1985

Roofing & Roofline Specialists • All aspects of maintenance & repair • Fascia & soffit installation

Newman ROOFING & REPAIRS

01695 627 212

MOBILE: 07774 943 837 17 BEECH TREE AVENUE APPLEY BRIDGE

MOBILE: 07774 943 706

• Guttering and felting services Call us now for a free estimate

01695 633173 Colin: 07958 302 166 Brian: 07760 160 988 www.wilson-bros.co.uk

52 HALLBRIDGE GARDENS UP HOLLAND

Established Over 30 Years

Number One for House Maintenance! • UPVC WINDOWS, DOORS & ROOFLINE • BROKEN LOCKS & MISTED WINDOWS

Advertise here

Advertise your business in this section for £37 + VAT a month For more information please phone

01695 627 999

we make it our business to help yours

www.locallife247.co.uk

• GUTTERS AND UPVC CLEANING SERVICE • FLAGGING, FENCING & POINTING • GENERAL GARDEN MAINTENANCE

No job too small! Call Mike Darbyshire on

01942 513 584 / 07917 352 181 Orrell based

Need a new look for your home?

Skilled interior and exterior work undertaken at reasonable prices! Chris Smith - Painter and Decorator

01942 518126 or 07545 065119 Orrell based business

Peter Pennington

Painter & Decorator 30 years experience City & Guilds qualified Call: 01942 226 408 or 07746 463 073

Lady Decorator

Professional Interior Decorating Service Reduced rates for Pensioners Clean, tidy and conscientious Tel: 01942 366996 or 07962 422856

Just Imagine

Decorating - Interior Design - Soft Furnishings

Ian Martland

Painter & Decorator Establised 1990

• All aspects of Decorating • Interior & Exterior • Free Estimates

01695 622 009 | 07748 195 809

C &D

Plumbing and Heating

Heating & Bathroom Specialist Chris Heaton M.I.P.H.E.R.P 07973714222 01695625171

If you need a new heating system or replacement boiler, call the installation specialists now for a free quote!

Great Value Bathrooms!

Full Bathrooms & En-Suites Showers, Trays & Cubicles Relocation of Bathroom Suites 25 years bathroom experience Call Chris now for a free quotation

C L Bathrooms

01942 749085 or 07801 295483 www.clbathrooms.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Our friendly family company has been serving the Lancashire area for over 25 years. For more details on our services please visit www.fgwelch.co.uk Our other services include; i Annual servicing i Landlord Gas safety checks i Home efficiency upgrades i System power flushing i All general plumbing

WE REPAIR ALL MAKES OF BOILERS!

Awarded winner of the Good trader scheme, for consistently high standards of customer feedback 2011

Telephone:

01257 421 660 Registration No.

88604

01942 504 429 MOB: 07931 766 684 TEL:

www.fgwelch.co.uk

Fix my conservatory!

Puzzle Corner - Solutions

• Misted/broken panels replaced • Leaks solved and sealed • Roof panels replaced or upgraded • Insurance work welcomed Call Mark now for a free quote

01942 737381 (day) 07763 151720 (evening)

e-mail: conservatoryrepairs@googlemail.com

www.ﬁxmyconservatory.com ARLEY FITTED KITCHENS & BEDROOMS • Manufacturers & Fitters of built-in Bedroom & Kitchen Furniture • Bathroom Units • Replacement Tops & Doors Visit or ring showroom to arrange for FREE estimates

Arley Cabinet Co. Ltd 214a Gidlow Lane Wigan WN6 7BN Mon-Fri: 8am - 4.30pm Sat: 9am - 12pm

www.arleycabinets.co.uk tel: 01942 246190

Jobs Domestic Cleaners Required – All Areas Growing company requires cleaning staff for immediate start. You must be honest and reliable, and all references supplied will be checked. Flexible hours to suit your lifestyle and good rates of pay for the right candidate. For details call Stephen or Joanne on 0800 043 0722 or 01942 203442. Distributors Required Local Life requires distributors (aged 13+) to deliver the magazine. We currently have vacancies for distributors on the Mount Estate in Orrell, the Crestwood Avenue estate and the Kelvin Grove/ Garside Grove area in Marus Bridge and the Clapgate Lane area of Goose Green. Distributors will typically work for 2/3 hours every 8 weeks, delivering in their own neighbourhoods. You must be fit, enthusiastic and reliable. Please email your name, address, landline number and date of birth to sallyb@locallife247.co.uk.

The photograph is of UpHolland Road, Orrell

For Roofing & Roofline we’ve got it covered! Roofing Emergency repairs General maintenance Full re-roofs Strip and re-slate Flat/pitched roof conversions Installation of Velux windows Roofline Fascias Soffits Cladding Gutters including Seamless Aluminium Gutters

Domestic & commercial work undertaken Flat roof problem? Don’t felt it, GRP it! This new ﬂat roof treatment will last 30+ years!

Protec Roofing is a long established roofing company that serves domestic and commercial customers throughout the North West. Whatever your roofing requirements are, from emergency roofing repairs to new roofs to roofline, Protec Roofing are there to help you. We promise our customers; • No emergency call out fees • Emergency repairs done asap • Free consultation & estimates • Day and evening appointments • Free advice from experienced roofers • A 10 year insurance-backed guarantee If you’re thinking of improving the appearance of your property by installing new roofline, please give us a call. We can supply and fit a huge range of quality products including our revolutionary new aluminium seamless gutters. Because when it comes to roofs, we’ve got it all covered!

CALL TODAY TO GET A FREE QUOTE

01942 514 788 0774 876 7845

or 01942 665 270 or 0770 221 8867 www.protecrooﬁngnw.co.uk

www.locallife247.co.uk

Restore your bathroyo! m to its former glor At a fraction of the price of a new bathroom After

Before

• Grubby Grout Returned to Ice White • No More Scrubbing at Mouldy Silicone • Tiles Polished to Perfection • Screens Returned to Crystal Clear • Give Your Bathroom the “Wow” Factor with a Mini-Makeover • Experts in Baths or Shower Cubicle Restoration

Useful Numbers

Call Now for Information & Your Quick Pack Quote

www.TotalBathroomRestoration.co.uk